Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Introduction

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are a fun, bite-sized twist on classic pizza. These little savory delights are stuffed with gooey cheese, zesty pepperoni, and seasoned marinara sauce, all wrapped up in soft, pillowy dough. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or game-day treat, these pizza bombs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

I first made these for a family movie night, and they disappeared so quickly! The combination of melted cheese and pepperoni, wrapped in that warm, soft dough, is simply irresistible. The best part is how versatile they are—you can dip them in extra marinara sauce, ranch, or even a little garlic butter for added flavor.

Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a cozy dinner, they offer all the flavors of a pizza in a convenient, handheld form. These pizza bombs are a fun and delicious way to satisfy your pizza cravings, and they’re always a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Perfect for:

• Game day snacks
• Movie nights
• Party appetizers
• Family dinner
• Pizza lovers

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Here’s why Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs will quickly become a favorite:

• Cheese Pull: These pizza bombs are loaded with melty mozzarella cheese, making each bite satisfyingly cheesy.
• Savory Pepperoni: The pepperoni adds a deliciously spicy and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese and marinara sauce.
• Easy to Make: With store-bought dough, this recipe comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy evenings or spontaneous gatherings.
• Perfectly Bite-Sized: These pizza bombs are easy to pop in your mouth, making them perfect for parties or snacking without the mess.
• Customizable: You can add your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers to make them your own.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 12 pizza bombs
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs:

• 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 24 slices pepperoni
• ½ cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• Pizza Dough: Using refrigerated pizza dough makes these pizza bombs quick and easy to assemble, with a soft and fluffy texture.
• Mozzarella Cheese: The gooey, melty mozzarella creates a delicious cheese pull with every bite.
• Pepperoni: The pepperoni adds a savory and slightly spicy kick, giving the pizza bombs their classic pizza flavor.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Garlic powder, oregano, and basil bring that signature pizza taste, while red pepper flakes give an optional spicy kick.
• Marinara Sauce: The marinara serves as the perfect dipping sauce, bringing a tangy, tomato flavor to balance the richness of the cheese and pepperoni.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs:

Prepare the Pizza Bombs:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle. Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into 12 equal squares.
3. Assemble the Pizza Bombs: On each square of dough, place a slice of pepperoni and a generous spoonful of shredded mozzarella cheese. If desired, add a pinch of dried oregano, basil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
4. Seal the Dough: Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the cheese and pepperoni, pinching the edges together to form a ball. Make sure the dough is tightly sealed to prevent the filling from escaping during baking.
5. Prepare for Baking: Place the dough balls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 1-2 inches apart.

Bake the Pizza Bombs:

6. Season the Dough: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Brush this mixture over the tops of the pizza bombs to give them a golden, flavorful crust.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pizza bombs are golden brown and the cheese is melted inside.
8. Cool: Allow the pizza bombs to cool for a few minutes before serving. Be careful, as the cheese inside can be very hot.

How to Serve Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are a fun, versatile snack that can be served in many ways:

• With Dipping Sauce: Serve these pizza bombs with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or try ranch dressing or garlic butter for a different twist.
• As a Party Appetizer: These pizza bombs are perfect for parties or gatherings, offering a bite-sized snack that everyone can enjoy.
• For Dinner: Pair these pizza bombs with a side salad or veggies for a fun and easy dinner.
• As a Game Day Snack: Perfect for watching the big game, these pizza bombs are easy to eat and always a crowd favorite.

Additional Tips for Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Here are some tips to ensure your Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs turn out perfect every time:

• Don’t Overstuff the Bombs: Be careful not to add too much cheese or pepperoni, as it can make sealing the dough difficult or cause the filling to leak during baking.
• Use Fresh Dough: If possible, use fresh pizza dough for the best texture. Pre-packaged dough works fine, but fresh dough will have a softer, fluffier texture.
• Add More Toppings: Feel free to add additional pizza toppings like olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms to create your perfect flavor combination.
• Brush with Garlic Butter: For extra flavor, brush the pizza bombs with garlic butter instead of olive oil before baking.
• Don’t Skip the Seasoning: The garlic powder and herbs give the pizza bombs their signature flavor, so don’t skip these steps.

Recipe Variations for Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Here are 10 variations you can try for Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs:

• Cheese Only Pizza Bombs: Skip the pepperoni and fill the pizza bombs with just mozzarella cheese for a classic cheese-stuffed bomb.
• Veggie Pizza Bombs: Add diced bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to the filling for a veggie-packed pizza bomb.
• Bacon and Cheddar Pizza Bombs: Swap the pepperoni for crispy bacon and add shredded cheddar cheese for a smoky, cheesy flavor.
• Buffalo Chicken Pizza Bombs: Use cooked, shredded chicken and toss it in buffalo sauce, then add blue cheese crumbles for a spicy, tangy twist.
• Hawaiian Pizza Bombs: Add diced ham and pineapple chunks along with the cheese for a tropical take on the classic pizza.
• BBQ Chicken Pizza Bombs: Use cooked chicken tossed in BBQ sauce along with red onion and mozzarella cheese for a BBQ-inspired treat.
• Garlic Parmesan Pizza Bombs: Fill the dough with mozzarella and top with garlic parmesan seasoning for a rich, garlicky flavor.
• Pesto Pizza Bombs: Add a spoonful of pesto along with the cheese and pepperoni for a fresh, herby twist.
• Sausage and Peppers Pizza Bombs: Replace the pepperoni with cooked sausage and sautéed bell peppers for a hearty, savory filling.
• Gluten-Free Pizza Bombs: Use gluten-free pizza dough to make a gluten-free version of these pizza bombs.

Freezing and Storage for Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

• Freezing: These pizza bombs freeze wonderfully. Simply place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover pizza bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment for Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs easier:

• Pizza Cutter or Knife: For cutting the dough into squares to easily assemble the pizza bombs.
• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat will make cleanup easy.
• Silicone Baking Mat or Parchment Paper: Prevent sticking and ensure even baking with silicone mats or parchment paper.
• Pastry Brush: A pastry brush is helpful for brushing the garlic oil over the pizza bombs before baking.
• Measuring Spoons: Accurate measurements of the seasoning are essential for perfect flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions for Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

1. Can I use homemade dough?
   Yes, you can use homemade pizza dough for these pizza bombs. It will work just as well as store-bought dough.
2. Can I make these pizza bombs ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the pizza bombs, store them in the fridge for a few hours, and bake them when you’re ready. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
3. What other meats can I use instead of pepperoni?
   You can use cooked sausage, bacon, or even cooked chicken for different flavor variations.
4. How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
   Make sure to seal the dough tightly around the cheese and pepperoni. If needed, chill the pizza bombs before baking to help them hold together.
5. Can I make these pizza bombs vegan?
   Yes, you can substitute vegan cheese and leave out the pepperoni for a vegan version of these pizza bombs.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are a must-try for any pizza fan! These bite-sized delights are filled with gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and all the flavors of your favorite pizza—wrapped up in a perfectly golden, crispy dough. They’re the ultimate snack for any occasion, whether it’s game day, a casual dinner, or just a tasty treat.

What makes them even better is how easily customizable they are! Feel free to add your favorite toppings or sauces, and make them your own. The best part? They’re quick to make and so fun to eat!

If you decide to whip up some Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs, don’t forget to snap a pic and share it with me on social media—I can’t wait to see how your creations turn out! Enjoy the deliciousness!